Forget Brady vs. Manning -- this is Brady vs. Wade

[Denver Native (Carol)]

John Clayton ESPN Senior Writer


DENVER -- The daily headline for this week's AFC Championship game is going to be "Tom Brady versus Peyton Manning." That's just inevitable. But the real story of this game is Tom Brady versus Wade Phillips, the Denver Broncos' defensive coordinator.

Age, four back surgeries and now a plantar fascia injury mean Manning's role will be different in this latest matchup. Not being able to rely on his once great arm, the Broncos want Manning to manage a low-scoring game, help maximize running opportunities and eliminate turnovers. Manning doesn't have to beat Brady. Phillips and his defense are charged with that responsibility.

Manning was injured when the New England Patriots visited the Broncos in the last week of November. Brock Osweiler was making just his second NFL start. Then as it will be now, Phillips had to do whatever he could to limit Brady, and he ultimately did just enough. Brady threw for 280 yards and three touchdowns, but the Broncos pulled out a 30-24 win in overtime.

rest - plus video - http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/14593132/the-true-showdown-afc-championship-tom-brady-wade-phillips-nfl

[Nomad]

Brady was missing his 2 key receivers in Amendola and Edelman. I see a lot of hurryup offense and underneath routes by the Patriots. Getting Brady rattled early is key, and hoping it results in turnovers.

[Dzone]

Great article. Yep, and Wade vs Mcdaniels

[DenBronx]

This is the model game that Elway had envisioned. Play tough defense, run run run pass and run some more. However, our run game isn't exactly on point at times. It will be tough day for NE if Denver gets the lead and is able to run on them.